Which statement is true about trace minerals?

Which statement is true about trace minerals?

• A. Calcium
• B. Iron
• C. Nickel
• D. Sodium

Answer: (B)

Trace minerals are nutrients required in small amounts to support essential body functions, unlike major minerals that are needed in much larger amounts. Iron fits this category clearly because it is required only in trace amounts to form hemoglobin and myoglobin and support various enzymes; its daily need is in the milligram range and it is a well-established essential trace mineral. Sodium and calcium, on the other hand, are major minerals because daily requirements are much higher and they play primary roles as electrolytes and in bone/fluid balance. Nickel is a trace element as well, but its essential status is not as clearly defined as iron’s, so iron stands out as the true trace mineral among these options.

Trace minerals are nutrients required in small amounts to support essential body functions, unlike major minerals that are needed in much larger amounts. Iron fits this category clearly because it is required only in trace amounts to form hemoglobin and myoglobin and support various enzymes; its daily need is in the milligram range and it is a well-established essential trace mineral. Sodium and calcium, on the other hand, are major minerals because daily requirements are much higher and they play primary roles as electrolytes and in bone/fluid balance. Nickel is a trace element as well, but its essential status is not as clearly defined as iron’s, so iron stands out as the true trace mineral among these options.